Rhodesian Ridgeback

This African breed combines speed, strength, and stamina, making it well-known for its guarding abilities and running prowess. With a strong and athletic build, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a short, shiny coat that has evolved to thrive in very hot weather. A key characteristic is the distinctive ridge along their back, which begins with two spiral patterns just behind their shoulders and narrows down to their hips. Generally friendly and calm, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a noble presence.

Quick Info

Size

Large

Colours

Any color from light wheaten to red wheaten

Lifespan

10 to 12 years

Height

24 to 27 inches

Type

Hound

Hypoallergenic

Weight

70 to 85 pounds

Family

Scenthound

Personality

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is confident but not hostile and looks after its family. They are great with older kids but might be too energetic for younger ones. These dogs are strong, independent, and large, which can make them seem overbearing. It’s best not to leave two adult male Ridgebacks alone together. They tend to be cautious around unfamiliar people, but they usually get along well with other dogs and sometimes cats if they have been socialized properly.

History

In the 16th and 17th centuries, European colonizers introduced various dog breeds to South Africa, including Mastiffs, Great Danes, Bloodhounds, Pointers, Staghounds, and Greyhounds. They crossed these breeds with local Hottentot hunting dogs, which had a distinctive ridge of hair along their backs. These early dogs were recognized for their loyalty and protective nature towards their families.

Ideal Owner

To successfully train a Rhodesian Ridgeback, owners must be ready to put in a lot of effort and have plenty of open space for safe running. These dogs are very attached to their families but can be cautious around unfamiliar people and other dogs, which may lead them to be protective. It's important to socialize them well and have strong fences. They thrive in homes without young children, but they can manage with older kids.

Exercise Needs

An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback requires a few hours of physical activity each day, preferably allowing them to run freely. Since they have strong hunting instincts, it’s best to let them off the leash in safe, open areas away from other dogs. They can also enjoy long walks on a leash.

Space Requirements

A Rhodesian Ridgeback will do well on a big, fenced property. While they can adapt to suburban living, they really enjoy rural settings where they have plenty of open space to run around.

Training

Rhodesian Ridgebacks require a lot of physical activity each day and also benefit from mental challenges to keep them engaged. They would likely enjoy going for runs or hikes alongside their owners.

Grooming

Taking care of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is wonderfully easy. Their short fur only requires a quick rub with a rubber grooming mitt once or twice a week to stay shiny and in good condition.

Suitability for Family Life

While they show love to the kids in their own families, they tend to be less accepting of the friends of those kids or anyone they see as unfamiliar. They thrive better in homes with older children who understand their limits, or in households without any children at all.

Did You know?

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are named for the unique strip of hair that runs along their backs. This strip is created by hair that grows in the opposite direction compared to the rest of their fur, and it features two whorls or "crowns" that face each other. There may be a link between this hair ridge and a rare skin condition that some dogs are born with.

Similar Breeds

Need to Know

Dogs suitable for experienced owners

Extra training required

Generally healthy breed

Enjoys vigorous daily walks

Large dog

Minimal drool

Requires regular grooming

Quiet dog